Canada Student Visa

SX-1 Visa

The SX-1 Visa is a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) for individuals who intend to take a short course for up to six months in Canada. The Canadian government designed it as a start-up program to attract entrepreneurs who want ​​to achieve their educational goals in the country.

The study program may be part-time or full-time and can include language courses and certification programs. Additionally, with the SX-1 Visa, international students can study in a DLI (Designated Learning Institution) or non-DLI.

Those who intend to attend a DLI must apply for a Study permit before obtaining their Student Visa. Non-DLI students are not mandated to apply for a Study permit. However, holding a Study permit may give them additional rights, including the ability to work on their campuses and extend their stay from within Canada. Generally, students without a Study permit wishing to extend their stay to enrol in a subsequent program must leave the country and make a fresh visa application.

SW-1 Visa

The SW-1 Visa is a study and work authorization that specifically allows international students to work during their studies in Canada. Students who get the SW-1 Visa must be enrolled in a co-op or internship program where they are required to work at some point during their study program.

Work experience must be part of their course curriculum and mandatory to make up their academic credits. It must also total 50% or less of their study curriculum. The SW-1 Visa allows holders to work off-campus up to 24 hours per week and is valid for a maximum of 4 years.

S-1 Visa

The S-1 Visa is issued to international students with an optional co-op or internship in their study program. With an optional co-op, students can choose whether to work during their studies. However, those who choose to work may need to apply for a co-op work permit at no extra cost.

To be eligible for the S-1 Visa, the study program must be longer than 24 weeks and offered by a DLI.

General Requirements for a Canada Student Visa

To be eligible for a Canada Student Visa, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be enrolled in a post-secondary level institution
• Have sufficient funds to pay for tuition fees and living expenses in Canada
• Intend to leave Canada once you’ve completed your studies
• Be in good health
• Not have a criminal record.

Proof of Funds for Canada Student Visa

As part of the application requirements, you must show sufficient funds to support yourself during your studies without relying on employment or public funds. The funds you must show should cover:

• Your tuition
• Living costs
• Return travel costs to your home country after your studies.

The cost of tuition varies between institutions and study programs. The tuition you must pay will be stated in the acceptance letter from your academic institution. However, the cost of your living is fixed by the Canadian government and will depend on the province where you reside.

International students living outside Quebec must have CAN$20,635 for living expenses. They’ll also need to prove additional income for each accompanying family member. Here’s a breakdown of the cost for non-Quebec residents:

Applicants intending to study and live in Quebec must demonstrate they have the following income depending on their circumstances:

To prove that you meet the income requirement, you can submit any of the following:

• Proof of a Canadian bank account in your name with funds
• A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian financial institution
• Evidence of a student or education loan from a bank
• Your bank statements for the past 4 months
• A bank draft that can be converted to Canadian dollars
• Proof you paid your tuition and housing fees
• A letter from your sponsor (a person or school giving you money) or
• Proof of funding paid from within Canada, if you have a scholarship or are in a Canadian-funded educational program.

Language Requirements for Canada Study Visa

Canada Study Visa applicants must prove their proficiency in English or French. The most common way to do so is by passing a language test such as any of the following:

• International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
• Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP)
• Pearson Test of English Core (PTE Core)
• Test d’évaluation de français (TEF)
• Test de connaissance du français (TCF)

In some cases, applicants may be able to demonstrate their language proficiency without a test if they have a previously completed educational certificate in English at a post-secondary level or are from certain English-speaking countries.

Note that the educational institution usually determines language requirements for Student visas. Thus, they set the type of test to take, the required score, and any exemptions.

If you have any questions regarding the language proficiency requirements, call +1 844 290 6312 to discuss with one of our lawyers.

Prepare Your Documents 

You must submit electronic copies of certain documents when applying for the study visa. It’s essential to prepare them before making an application. These documents include:

• A valid passport or travel document with at least one free page
• Two recent passport-size photos with your name and date of birth written on the back of each
• A letter of acceptance into a Canadian school
• A letter explaining why you want to study in Canada
• A provincial attestation letter (PAL) or territorial attestation letter (TAL) from your province or territory of study, unless you’re exempt, such as if you intend to undertake a master’s degree or doctoral degree program.
• A medical exam certificate
• Police certificate
• Proof of funds
• A language proficiency test result.

Your documents must be in English or French to be acceptable for visa processing. If they are in another language, you should prepare a translation, an affidavit from the individual who completed the translation and a certified photocopy of the original document.

Submit Your Application for a Canada Student Visa

You must submit your application online on the IRCC’s website, irrespective of the country you’re applying from.

To apply online, create an account on the IRCC portal and complete the online visa application form. You must upload your supporting documents and pay the visa application and biometrics fee. Afterwards, you can submit your application.

Paper applications are acceptable through Visa Application Centers (VAC). However, they are accepted for applicants who:

• Have a disability that prevents them from applying online
• Hold a travel or identity document for non-national residents, refugees or stateless persons.

Biometrics and Medical Examination for Canada Student Visa

If you paid your biometric fees during your online application, you will receive a biometric instruction letter (BIL) inviting you to submit your biometrics. You’ll usually need to visit a Canada VAC in the country you applied from on a scheduled appointment date.

You should submit your BIL, passport, and other supporting documents at your appointment. The visa officials will collect your fingerprints and photographs. You do not need to pay an extra fee for biometric collection during your appointment but may need to pay a service charge, which varies depending on the VAC.

Immigration Medical Examination

An immigration medical exam (IME) is essential to obtaining a Canada visa. For Study visa applicants, IMEs are typically required if:

• You will be studying for more than 6 months in Canada and
• You have lived or travelled to certain countries for 6 months in the year before your application

If you are required to submit a medical result, you can get an IME before or after you make your online visa application. To do so, you must visit a doctor on the IRCC’s list of panel physicians in your country of residence. If you provide a medical result from an unauthorized physician, your application will be rejected.

The IME will include a physical examination, chest X-rays, and laboratory tests. The physician will also record your medical history. If you have the medical exam before making your visa application, the doctor will ask you to complete the IMM 1017B Upfront Medical Report. Then, you must upload a copy of the report with your application.

If you had your medical exam after applying, you won’t need to submit anything. Instead, the physician will send the results to the IRCC. Note that you will need to pay the fees for the medical exam and that your medical report will be valid for 12 months.

After You Apply for a Canada Student Visa

Once you have submitted your online application and provided your biometrics and medical results, the Canadian immigration authorities will review your application.

If your documents are incomplete, the IRCC may contact you to submit the missing copies before processing your applications. Depending on your immigration situation, the immigration authorities may ask you to visit the VAC or Canadian embassy for an interview.

If your circumstances change during the processing period, such as a change in address or telephone number, you must update your application through your online account. Furthermore, you can check the status of your application online through the IRCC’s ‘application status tracker’ using your application number and unique client identifier (UCI).

Canada Student Visa Processing Time and Fees 

The processing time for the Canada Study visa can take up to 12 weeks, depending on the country of application. The application fee for a Canadian student permit is CAN$150, and the biometric fee is CAN$85.

Overview

You can work while studying in Canada without obtaining a separate work permit as long as your study permit authorizes you to work. If your study permit doesn’t authorize you to work, you may be able to request that work conditions be granted to your current permit.

There are certain conditions for working as a student. The general requirement is to only start working after your study program has commenced. Working before the start of your program is not permitted. The specific work requirements for international students in Canada will depend on whether a permit intends to work on-campus or off-campus.

Requirements for On-campus Work

On-campus work opportunities are strictly limited within your school environment. You can usually work for:

• Your school
• A faculty member
• A student organization
• Yourself if you run a physical business on campus or one that provides on-campus services to your school.

You may be permitted to carry out on-campus work outside school locations if you are working as a teaching assistant whose task is related to a research grant. For instance, you can work at a research facility, library, or hospital associated with your school, even if the building is outside campus.

There are no restrictions to the number of hours you can work on campus as long as you meet the criteria. To be eligible for on-campus work, you must:

• Be a full-time student at a Canadian post-secondary school
• Have a valid study permit that authorizes on-campus work and
• Have a Social Insurance Number (SIN).

You are not eligible to continue working on-campus if:

• Your study permit expires
• You switch to part-time studies unless you are in your final semester
• You are on authorised leave from school
• You are switching schools and are currently not studying.

Requirements for Off-Campus Work 

You may be eligible to work off-campus without a work permit if:

• You are a full-time student in a designated learning institution (DLI)
• Your study program is at least 6 months long and leads to a diploma, degree or certificate.
• You have a Social Insurance Number (SIN)

If you are undertaking off-campus work during school terms, you can only do so for up to 24 hours weekly. You are allowed to take up multiple jobs that make up the permitted hours. During school holidays, you can work off-campus for unlimited hours.

You will not be allowed to work off-campus with a study permit if:

• You are only enrolled in an English or French as a second language (ESL/FSL) program.
• You are only taking general interest courses.
• Your study permit states you are not authorized to work off campus while you study.
• You switch to part-time studies unless you are in your final semester

If you intend to work off-campus and you do not meet the requirements, you can apply for a work permit.

Overview

The Canada Student visa application process can be challenging; even tiny mistakes can lead to delays or rejections. Additionally, the Canadian government has tightened its immigration rules in 2024, with plans to reduce the number of study permits it approves for international students next year. This has made the application process more complex.

If you are applying for a Study visa, here are the most common mistakes to avoid in your application to improve your chances of a successful outcome:

Submitting Incorrect Documentation

One primary reason for visa delays and refusals is submitting incorrect or incomplete documentation. When submitting your application, ensure you correctly complete the online form. Minor errors, like inconsistent personal details, can lead to complications. Also, ensure all supporting documents are valid, accurate, and legible.

Insufficient Proof of Funds

A key requirement for a Canada student visa is proof that you can cover your tuition fees and living expenses. Failing to provide sufficient evidence of your ability to support yourself during your studies in Canada is a common reason for rejection. If you do not meet the financial requirements, it’s advisable to wait until your situation changes before applying for the visa.

Lack of Ties to Home Country

Immigration officers assess whether you will likely return to your home country after completing your studies. Failing to demonstrate strong ties, such as family connections, employment prospects, or property ownership, can raise concerns about your intent to leave Canada.

It’s essential to highlight these ties clearly in your application and explain in your letter of purpose how your academic program is linked to employment prospects in your home country.

Not Understanding the Visa Criteria

Many applicants overlook necessary Student visa conditions, such as the requirement to study at a DLI or to have clean criminal and medical records. Familiarize yourself with the visa criteria and ensure you are eligible before you apply.

An immigration lawyer can analyze your situation and identify potential issues that could lead to delays or rejections. They can guide you through the application process to ensure your application meets all the requirements. Call +1 844 290 6312 to speak to an immigration lawyer.

Overview

If your student visa application is rejected, you will receive a decision letter stating the reasons for rejection. You can also request the visa officer’s case notes to see detailed reasons for the refusal.

While a visa denial can be disheartening, it does not necessarily end your Canada-study dreams. Depending on your situation, you can address the situation by reapplying or appealing the refusal decision.

Reapply

If the reasons for refusal are valid, reapplying for the Student visa is the most practical option. Start by carefully reviewing the refusal letter to understand the reasons behind the rejection. Then, take proactive steps to rectify these issues before submitting a new application.

If the issue was insufficient funds, provide updated financial documents demonstrating your ability to support yourself.  If concerns were raised about your study intent, strengthen your application with a revised statement of Purpose that clearly outlines your academic goals and ties to your home country.

Submit a Reconsideration Request

If you believe your study permit application was refused for invalid reasons, you can submit an appeal requesting a reconsideration of your application. A reconsideration request is a formal petition to the IRCC to review your application and potentially overturn their decision.

You should request a reconsideration within 30 days of receiving your decision letter. To apply for reconsideration, fill out the online Notice of Appeal form and mail a copy of the refusal letter to the IRCC. Filing a reconsideration request is free but may take a few weeks. As such, you may need to contact your school to amend your resumption date to ensure you can continue your program if your reconsideration application is successful.

Cost of Living in Canada for International Students

The cost of living in Canada varies by city and province. Major cities like Toronto and Vancouver generally have higher living costs for rent, food, and transportation compared to smaller towns. Here’s an overview of the typical expenses for international students:

Housing

The monthly rent for off-campus apartments in a city like Toronto can range from CAD 1,500 to CAD 2,500, depending on the facilities. In smaller towns like Halifax or Winnipeg, the cost can range from CAD 600 to CAD 1,200. These costs can be significantly less for students who share apartments.

On-campus accommodations are mainly billed per academic year and can cost between CAD 3,000 and CAD 12,000 annually, depending on the school. These rates often include electricity, heating, internet, and other utilities.

Utilities

Students living off-campus will need to include the cost of utilities in their monthly bills. Depending on the city and type of apartment, heating, electricity, water, and internet costs can add up to CAD 300 per month to your living expenses.

The cost of heating can also increase during winter, particularly in provinces like Quebec or Ontario, where temperatures typically drop. Cooling and water charges may also increase during the summer.

Food

Food bills in Canada vary depending on a student’s eating lifestyle and location. The average cost of groceries is CAD 300 monthly. Grocery costs are typically higher if you shop in non-budget-friendly supermarkets. Some stores offer student discounts ranging from 10% to 20% off.

Students who cook from home can spend up to an extra CAD 200 monthly, depending on their dietary preferences. Students who prefer to dine out will have more monthly food expenses, with the average restaurant meal cost around CAD 15.

Furthermore, some Canadian schools offer meal plans to students that allow them to purchase a set of meals at designated dining facilities. These meal plans can help reduce food expenses.

Transportation

Public transit, including subways, buses, and trains, can cost between CAD 100 and CAD 150 monthly, depending on the city.  However, students can get discounted transit passes using a valid college ID, which can help reduce their monthly transportation costs.

Health Insurance for International Students

Health insurance requirements for international students in Canada vary from province to province.

Most provinces, including Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan, offer provincial insurance plans at a nominal cost. As such, schools in these provinces will require students to register for their health insurance package. These public plans typically cover essential medical services but may have limitations.

Other provinces, including Manitoba and Nova Scotia, require international students to purchase private medical insurance plans. Private plans can cost between CAD 600 and CAD 1000 yearly, depending on the insurance provider and level of coverage provided.

Student Support Services in Canada

Studying in a new country can be overwhelming, especially when unsure where to find assistance. However, educational institutions in Canada provide a wide range of support services for international students, including financial guidance, mental health resources, and academic skills development support.

Taking advantage of these resources can enhance your academic and personal experience in Canada. Here are some services available to you:

• Academic Support: This includes access to tutoring, academic advising and workshops, and language support programs.
• Counselling Services: You can access free or low-cost counselling and wellness programs that can help with academic, personal, and social issues.
• Career Services: This includes assistance with job searching, resume writing, interview preparation, and career planning.
• Student Associations: These are opportunities to connect with other international students through student associations and clubs.

Legal Aid: You can get limited legal assistance for challenges involving tenancy agreements, employment contracts, and immigration matters, including study permit extensions and work permit applications.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) 

The post-graduation work permit (PGWP) is an open work permit that allows graduates of certain designated learning institutions to work in Canada after their studies. It is valid for 8 months to three years, depending on the length and level of your study program and the expiry date of your passport, whichever comes first.

To be eligible for the Post-Graduation work permit, you must meet the following general eligibility requirements:

• You have completed a study program at a DLI that is PGWP-eligible
• You were a full-time student in Canada during each semester of your study program, except you:
• • Studied part-time during your final semester
  • Took an approved leave from your studies
  • Stopped studying or changed to part-time studies between March 2020 and the fall semester in 2020 for reasons related to COVID-19
• You apply for your PGWP within 180 days of graduating
• Your study permit was valid at some point during the 180 days after you graduated

In addition to the general requirements, there are specific requirements you must meet based on your study program, field of study, and physical location. For instance, if you enrolled in a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral program, you must meet the language proficiency requirement.

To apply for the PGWP, prepare your documents, including:

• Your diploma or degree,
• Your official transcript,
• An official letter from your school
• Your passport
• Proof of language proficiency

Afterwards, submit an online application, pay the $255 application fee, and provide your biometrics if required.

Other Pathways to Permanent Residency in Canada

If you are not eligible for PGWP, you may still be eligible to work after you graduate through other immigration pathways. These include:

• The Express Entry Program, which consists of the following programs:
• • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
  • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
• Provincial Nominee Program
• Quebec Experience Program
• Atlantic Immigration Program

Note that the Candian Experience Class (CEC) program requires applicants to have prior Canadian work experience to be eligible to apply. As such, it might be more suitable for foreign nationals who have completed the PGWP.

Besides work programs, you can also leverage the family sponsorship pathway to obtain permanent Canadian residency. If you have a family member, such as a spouse or common-law partner, who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you can apply for a family visa to remain in Canada permanently.